Air Jordan 8 Release Dates
Originally released in 1993, the Air Jordan 8 was unlike any other Air Jordan sneaker. Inspired by the Nike Air Raid, the AJ 8 featured criss-cross straps providing the most lockdown support possible. It also followed in the footsteps of the Air Jordan 7, with the only Nike Air branding coming via the insoles.
In 1993 the Air Jordan 8 made its debut. With Tinker Hatfield again at the design helm, the Air Jordan 8 was destined for success. Its unique look took footwear design into the future with its criss-cross straps and chenille tongue logo. Michael Jordan would also lace up the Air Jordan 8 en route to his third consecutive NBA championship.
The Air Jordan 8 was initially released in three colorways: Bugs Bunny, Aqua, and Playoff. The Bugs Bunny pair went with the Chicago Bulls home uniforms and was on the feet of the cartoon rabbit in AJ 8 ad campaigns. MJ wore the unique Aqua colorway during the 1993 NBA All-Star Game, where the West defeated the East 135-132 in overtime. Finally, Jordan rocked the Playoff colorway throughout the 1993 NBA Playoffs where his Chicago Bulls defeated the Phoenix Suns to win another chip.
Since 2003, we have seen the Air Jordan 8 Retro in various OG and new colorways, which we still see today. Collaborators, including Drake and his OVO imprint have all been fortunate enough to design their own exclusive AJ 8. Some of them made it to retail, while others did not. Some new colorways have even ranked up there next to the OG’s, such as the Oregon Ducks, Doernbecher, Ray Allen, Sequoia, and Q-Rich. Thirty-plus years later, the AJ 8 is still as iconic as ever.
Originally retailing for $125, the Air Jordan 8's retail price has increased through the years and now has a sticker price of $200 for men, $150 for GS, $90 for PS, and $75 for TD. Retail also increases depending on the colorway/release, occasionally up to $275. Find all the Jordan 8's past and present on Sole Retriever today!
